Numerical Modeling of Tidal Circulation in Harbors

Abstract

In this study a numerical model has been developed that can be used to predict the two-dimensional tide-induced velocity fields in harbors and estuaries. The model is particularly suited to basins having a narrow entrance where, on the incoming tide, the divergence of the velocity field associated with the jet inlet gives rise to the generation of vorticity. The time-dependent nonlinear equations of motion are formulated to include the effects of bottom roughness, wind action, the earth's rotation, and a simplified version of the turbulent transfer of momentum. These equations are expressed in an alternating-direction implicit finite difference form and are solved by Gaussian elimination. The numerical model has been checked by making comparisons between the computed velocity fields and experimentally measured velocities and path lines for two hydraulic model studies involving various rectangular harbors and a circular reservoir.